1956 Ford Thunderbird Frame-Off Restored - CELEBRITY CAR!

Vehicle Description

Step into American History with this STUNNING 1956 Ford Thunderbird, once owned by the legendary Howard Hughes — and Famously participated in a Guinness Book of World Records Flight Operation. This exceptional example of mid-century automotive design has been meticulously frame-off restored to TOP LEVEL standards, preserving its timeless appeal while honoring its iconic provenance.

Finished in eye-catching Fiesta Red with a matching Hard-Top with ICONIC Porthole Windows, this Thunderbird exudes classic 1950s flair and elegance. Under the hood lies the powerful 312 cubic inch V8 engine, mated to a smooth automatic transmission, offering both effortless cruising and unmistakable American muscle.

From the gleaming chrome to the show-quality paint, no detail was overlooked in the restoration of this piece of motoring and Hollywood history. The interior has been returned to its original glory, reflecting the luxury and innovation that made the Thunderbird a symbol of style and performance.

Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the fusion of celebrity, craftsmanship, and classic automotive design, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a vehicle that transcends the ordinary.

Current NADA Book Values Range from $94,065 up to $138,055 — which adds zero value for the certain prominence and history of this particular vehicle. We have decided to sell this GORGEOUS piece of HISTORY for JUST $79,997 — so you are not only getting a 1-of-1 Collector Piece — you are getting a TON of “INSTANT EQUITY” in a BLUE CHIP COLLECTOR Status Vehicle.

Check out the details - Check out the photos - Watch the YouTube “Walk-Around” Video — then CALL Or EMAIL us TODAY to BuY-iT-NOW! Need assistance with FINANCING or SHIPPING??? NO PROBLEM!!! We have the resources to get this RARE SPECIMEN from our SHOWROOM FLOOR to YOUR GARAGE DOOR! 800-605-2252.

EXTERIOR:

• Frame-Off Restoration

• Fiesta Red Exterior

• Color-Matched “Porthole” Hardtop

• White Soft-Top

• Kelsey-Hayes Chrome Spoke Wheels

• Wide-White-Wall Tires

• Factory Continental Kit

INTERIOR:

• Fully Restored

• Color-Matched Red & White Vinyl Interior

• Factory Power Seat

• Original Gauges

• Original Steering Wheel

• Factory Fit Modern Stereo

DRIVETAIN:

• 312 Cubic-Inch V8 Engine

• Automatic Transmission

• Rear-Wheel-Drive

• Frame-Off Restored

• Highly Detailed to Original Engine Bay

• Highly Detailed to Original Undercarriage

• Starts Easy - Idles Smooth - Runs Strong! (See Video)

HISTORY:

• Offered here is a truly exceptional 1956 Ford Thunderbird with an extraordinary backstory. Purchased BRAND NEW by George and Peg Crockett—founders of Alamo Airways and owners of Alamo Field, the original site of today’s LAS VEGAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT —this Thunderbird was far more than just a stylish personal car.

• Originally used as a high-speed support vehicle, it served a critical role at Alamo Field, rushing supplies and, at times, fire-fighting equipment to aircraft. The T-Bird also matched the bold image of Alamo Airways, known for chauffeuring celebrities in a V-16 Cadillac and hosting aviation legend Howard Hughes, a personal friend of the Crocketts.

• Most notably, this Thunderbird played a key role in one of aviation’s most remarkable records. In late 1958, it was used to help keep a Cessna 172 Airplane aloft for 64 days, 22 hours, and 19 minutes—a feat that still stands as the world record for the longest continuous flight. When the custom-built fuel tanker failed, George Crockett drove this very car along a dry lakebed near Primm, Nevada, pacing with the aircraft while passing five-gallon cans of gasoline up via rope—a true testament to ingenuity and determination.

• In 1967, the Thunderbird was included in the sale of Alamo Airways to the worldy famous Howard Hughes owner of Hughes Tool & Aviation Company . The original Hughes Tool Company property tag still remains affixed to the firewall. Hughes later sold the car to his personal pilot in the mid-1970s.

• Since then, the car has remained in private collections and has undergone a meticulous FRAME-OFF RESTORATION. If you’ve traveled through the Las Vegas International Airport - you may have seen this car as it was on display in the baggage claim area. Today, it presents in stunning show condition, a rare blend of historical significance, provenance, and beautifully restored classic design.

Here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a true piece of aviation and automotive history.

NADA BOOK VALUES:

Average Book Value: $94,065

High Book Value: $138,055

BuY-iT-NOW: $79,997

CALL or EMAIL us TODAY to BuY-iT-NOW!

800-605-2252

****NATIONWIDE SHIPPING AVAILABLE****

****NATIONWIDE FINANCING AVAILABLE****

****TRADE-IN ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE****

We take trades, Offer Nationwide Financing, and can assist with SHIPPING Door-2-Door WORLDWIDE! We are a 50 YEAR-OLD FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED DEALERSHIP doing BUSINESS the RIGHT WAY since 1972! We offer 5 ACRES of INVENTORY, LARGE AC & HEATED SHOWROOM AREA, and FULL SERVICE DEPARTMENT with CERTIFIED TECHS on STAFF! ****SEE 50+ DETAILED PHOTOS of this SUPER NICE CLASSIC & MANY MORE CLASSIC and COLLECTORS @ WWW.THIELMOTORS.COM****563-659-9309.#THIELMOTORSDEWITT

Shipping Assistance:

We can assist with shipping quotes and shipping arrangements. We are not affiliated with any specific auto carrier. We assume no responsibility for damages incurred after the vehicle leaves our showroom. Any claims or other communication regarding shipment of vehicles will be between you and the transporter, not with Thiel Motor Sales Inc.